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Margaux Carpentier Books

once upon a big idea the story of inventions

Once Upon a Big Idea: The Story of Inventions

&
Poetry
resources-available

This book showcases a James Carter poem about inventions. The rhyming text takes the reader through the range of inventions we now have in our modern world. It is the colourful and vibrant illustrations that jump out at the reader in this book. They complement the rhyming text which focuses on the range and types of inventions from the start of time.

The end pages of this book should not be ignored and could provide an interesting discussion point for predictions about what this book will be about and for trying to make connections between the different items shown.  The font size and text layout guide the reader as it moves in and around the colourful illustrations. Teachers who are focusing on the topic of materials will find lots to explore in the text, particularly thinking about which everyday objects and items are made from – children may not be aware that glass is made from sand for example.

The end of the book has a nod towards the need for recycling the many things we create, and this may be a useful jumping-off point to talk about sustainability. The book also encourages children to be inventive and to create something new out of something old.

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rainforest warrior

Rainforest Warrior

&
Non-fiction, Picturebook
recommended-read-aloud

The Story of Chico Mendes is a story that is perfect for children in KS2 learning about rainforests, as well as inspirational figures who have changed the world for the better.

Chico Mendes is a hero that everyone should know about. Chico was a rubber tapper who stood up for his community and the importance of preserving the Amazon rainforest. Being an environmental activist, Chico worked tirelessly to help others and was recognised for his efforts by being awarded for his work towards protecting the rainforests by multiple countries. Tragically, Chico was murdered whilst working for this cause due to his efforts to support the rubber tappers, waking up the world to the plight of the rainforest destruction and protesting about the clearing of the forest.

Each page features beautiful coloured illustrations to support the text in each section. It is a recommendable book for use in sharing why it is important to protect the rainforests and also about highlighting the difference one person can make. There are plenty of interesting Amazon rainforest facts and a supporting glossary with technical language.

This is a special book to be shared with a class and an excellent addition to rainforest topic texts or classroom libraries.

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inside animals

Inside Animals

&
Non-fiction, Picturebook

Did you know that a frog can stop its heart from beating? Or that an elephant’s tooth is heavier than a brick? Or that the brain of an ostrich is smaller than its eyeball?
In this book, there are 21 cross-sections that show how skeletons, organs, nerves and muscles fit together inside creatures from across the globe. Animals can have some body parts in common with us humans, such as the brain, heart and lungs – but each creature has its own unique body to help it survive and thrive in the wild.

This means that there are all kinds of weird and wonderful organs and senses in the animal kingdom, such as the honey stomach in a honeybee or the ink sac of an octopus. Prepare to be dazzled as you discover incredible information to wow your family and friends with.

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Your Review

Stone Girl Bone Girl

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Year group(s) the book is most suitable for:

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Does the book contain anything that teachers would wish to know about before recommending in class (strong language, sensitive topics etc.)?

Does the book contain anything that teachers would wish to know about before recommending in class (strong language, sensitive topics etc.)?

Would you recommend the book for use in primary schools?

yes

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Curriculum links (if relevant)

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